Celebrating Diversity and Dispelling Myths: African Students at BYU-Hawaii Highlight the Richness of the Continent
Africa, often perceived through a singular lens, is a continent teeming with diversity, modernity, and cultural richness. This narrative is being passionately illuminated by students from Africa at Brigham Young University-Hawaii (BYU-Hawaii), who are working to clear misconceptions and celebrate the vibrant tapestry of cultures across the African continent.
Debunking Common Misconceptions
Amos Ameyaw Agyei, a computer science sophomore from Ghana, emphasizes the frequent misconception that Africa is a monolithic entity, when in fact it encompasses 54 countries, each with its unique cultures and over 1,000 languages. “Because of how Africa is depicted in the Western world and the media, most people don’t know it’s divided into many countries with various cultures and more than 1,000 languages,” Agyei explains, challenging the stereotypical image of an undeveloped land. He highlights that while some regions are rural, thriving cities like Johannesburg and Cairo boast modern infrastructure and technology.
Students like David Likita Likita from Nigeria are also confronting the unfair portrayals of Africa as impoverished and conflict-ridden. Likita, majoring in intercultural peacebuilding and political science, underscores Africa’s cultural wealth, education achievements, and global contributions. “Those are just some of the things we see online,” he argues against the narrow narratives. “Africa is rich and has great music. We have good people around. People who are well-educated and have changed the world globally.”
Cultural Exchange and Learning
Interactions at BYU-Hawaii, characterized by Likita Likita’s friendships with students from Tonga and Fiji, emphasize the value of cultural exchange. These interactions offer profound learning experiences beyond the classroom. By teaching each other languages and sharing traditions, students from diverse backgrounds deepen their understanding and appreciation of global cultures.
Similarly, Vimbayinashe Jennifer Mutsvanga from Zimbabwe illustrates the cultural plurality within her homeland. With languages like Shona and Debele, distinct beliefs, and natural wonders such as Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe is a microcosm of Africa’s diversity. Mutsvanga notes differences within Zimbabwean cultures, such as the Christian-oriented Shonas and the ancestor-venerating Debeles, emphasizing that such diversity is a source of strength and pride.
Expanding Understanding of African Nations
Both Likita and Agyei are committed to clarifying geographic and cultural misunderstandings. Likita confronts the common mistake of conflating Nigeria with South Africa, highlighting Nigeria’s major tribes and diverse languages. “In Nigeria, we have 36 states and about 4,000 languages found in every region,” he points out, stressing the country’s own rich internal diversity.
Agyei speaks of Ghana’s languages and the cultural significance of the Kente cloth and national colors. “Our traditional clothing represents the whole culture of Ghana,” he says, rooting national pride in shared cultural symbols that transcend tribal affiliations. The Ghanaian community, according to Agyei, celebrates their cultural diversity while maintaining national unity and patriotism.
Challenges, Resilience, and Hope
Despite economic challenges in Zimbabwe, Mutsvanga praises the resiliency and happiness of its people. “One interesting thing I like about my country is we do not easily get stressed by the small things,” she mentions, highlighting low crime rates and the sense of safety prevalent in her country.
Likita, adopted by American parents yet intrinsically Nigerian, treasures the cultural respect ingrained in Nigerian society. “We respect and pursue our love for humanity. That is one of the fundamentals of our culture,” he reflects, emphasizing humility and respect as core values despite one’s wealth or status.
For Ghanaians abroad like Agyei, maintaining ties to their homeland through investments and legacies is a testament to their enduring commitment to Ghana and their desire to positively influence perceptions of Africa across the globe. “We have a notion that wherever we find ourselves, we leave a legacy for the family. We are also there to give a good mark to those who would come after us,” he observes, encapsulating a broader narrative of pride and progress.
Local Impact and Broader Implications
The stories and efforts of these students have profound implications for their local communities, especially at BYU-Hawaii. By challenging narrow perspectives, they foster a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of Africa among their peers, enhancing community interest and engagement. In a region that values diversity, these students’ efforts contribute to a more nuanced view of global cultures.
This initiative parallels ongoing discussions about diversity and inclusion, potentially influencing future educational and cultural exchange programs. As students, educators, and community members reflect on these narratives, they are empowered to challenge stereotypes and celebrate diversity within their own communities.
Resources and Continued Engagement
Those interested in learning more about the contributions and experiences of African students can contact Ke Alaka’i, BYU-Hawaii’s campus news center, which provides resources and opportunities for cultural engagement (Campus News Center, BYU–Hawaii, #1920, 55-220 Kulanui Street Bldg 5, Aloha Center Room 134, (808) 675-3694, kealakai@byuh.edu).
In summary, through the voices of African students at BYU-Hawaii, we are reminded that diversity is not just about differences but about the shared richness it brings to our understanding of the world. As these narratives continue to ripple through the community, they signify a hopeful and informed approach to both local and global engagement, underscoring the importance of a fair and balanced perspective in modern journalism, as illuminated by Woke news.
